Method and apparatus for monitoring waste removal and administration

ABSTRACT

A method for a municipality to control, track, and monitor waste or refuse receptacles requires a permit for use of a waste receptacle. An issuing organization issues a permit associated with a discreet receptacle identifier. An RFID tag is provided with the permit and attached to a discreet receptacle. The RFID tag transmits a signal carrying data associated with the discreet receptacle identifier. The signal may be read by a portable reader carried by municipal personnel to record violations of municipal code associated with the use of the discreet receptacle.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of co-pending application Ser. No.12/274,273, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,146,798, filed on Nov. 19, 2008, whichwas a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 12/267,367, filed onNov. 7, 2008 and application Ser. No. 12/267,340, now U.S. Pat. No.8,815,277, also filed on Nov. 7, 2008. Each application is herebyincorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

N/A

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to refuse and waste removing and hauling. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatusfor controlling, tracking, and monitoring movement of waste or refusereceptacles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The collection and transportation of trash and recyclables fromresidential, commercial, industrial and large residential facilities isa major industry in the United States and throughout the civilizedworld. Typically, trash and recyclables are accumulated and temporarilystored in waste material receptacles such as trash cans and dumpsters.When filled, or at regularly scheduled intervals, trash and recyclablesfrom the containers are transported for the eventual recycling,incineration and/or disposal into landfills.

Customers typically pay for trash and recyclables removal services basedon the amount of trash and recyclables removed and the number of trashand recyclables pickups over a period of time. The compacting of trashand recyclables at a customer's location typically reduces the number ofpickups. A successful trash and recyclables compactor is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 6,412,406, titled Trash Compactor and owned by AdvancedCustom Engineered Systems & Equipment, Inc., Carol Stream, Ill.

These industrial, commercial and large residential bins and compactorsare collected from different locations and hauled to a central location.Normally, those hauling the trash and recyclables are sent from acentral location and dispatched to the different locations. In practice,paper logs or schedules document the hauler's runs (e.g., trash andrecyclables to pick-up, trash and recyclables being picked-up, and trashand recyclables picked-up). The haulers are given their routes in personor over the phone. The haulers, in turn, keep in touch with the centrallocation generally by cell phone or radio.

For large organizations this can be a very complicated task as there aremany haulers and many customers needing their trash and recyclablescollected, picked-up and hauled away. In addition, commercial,industrial and large residential (e.g., condos and apartment buildings)trash and recyclables compactors and balers must be monitored formaintenance and repair. This too requires time and energy for thehaulers and/or representatives (of the service provider) to monitor andinspect.

It should also be recognized that these industrial, commercial and largeresidential bins, balers and compactors require both period maintenanceand emergency demand repair services. Normally, those repairing theequipment are sent from a central location and dispatched to thedifferent locations. In practice, paper logs or work orders document therepairperson's time (e.g., drive time, time spent performing therepairs, parts and materials used, etc.). The repair companies use avariety of management tools. For example, some are given their routes inperson or over the phone. The service providers, in turn, keep in touchwith the central location generally by cell phone or radio.

For large organizations this can be a very complicated to coordinate andto verify that the charges for these services are fair and accurate asthere are many service providers and many customers needing theircompactors, bins and balers repaired. In addition, commercial,industrial and large residential (e.g., condos and apartment buildings).

In addition, it must be recognized that trash and recyclablescompactors, balers and bins must further be monitored for maintenanceand repair.

Methods of improving the refuse collection are disclosed in commonlyassigned and copending U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2008-0197194 A1, published on Aug. 21, 2008; U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2008-0198021 A1, published on Aug. 21, 2008; and U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2008-0202357 A1, published on Aug.28, 2008. These publications are hereby incorporated by reference as iffully set forth herein, and generally disclose systems for communicatingwith receptacles, etc.

One opportunity that exists with refuse removal is to improvecommunication between the vehicles making refuse pick-ups (emptyingreceptacles) and the central station or dispatcher. Currently, thedispatcher may be in contact with the vehicle via radio or telephonetransmission. However, it is not cost-effective of feasible for thedispatcher to be in constant contact with every vehicle out in thefield. Thus, it is impossible for the dispatcher to relay accountinformation associated with each receptacle to a vehicle. In would beadvantageous to provide such information to the vehicle to preventpick-up and emptying of receptacles owned or managed by entitiesdelinquent in their payment of invoices. Also, a given account may havespecial instructions, such as an additional oversized pick-up, for adiscreet single day or event. The dispatcher currently has no way ofassuring that the special instructions are provided to the vehicle in atimely manner.

Furthermore, there is on-going and growing concern in majormunicipalities with controlling several aspects refuse collection. Forinstance, citizens or users will often engage in activity with respectto refuse receptacles that violates municipal codes. Some of this iscaused by simply overloading receptacles. Other times, a user may fallbehind in payment of bills for removing refuse and waste, and thereceptacles and surrounding areas will become over loaded with refuse.This provides a haven for vermin such as rats. It may also cause damageto the lane on which the receptacles are located.

Absent constant patrol of back lanes, municipalities often have no ideathat these conditions exist until it is too late. Even when patrollingthe back lanes, it is difficult to impossible to determine whichreceptacles belong to which owners/addresses. Finally, when a positiveidentification of the offending receptacle is able to be determined theprocess consumes so much time that the municipal employee is only ableto investigate but a handful of the many violations that occur at anyone time. Thus, city officials need a method that will facilitatereceptacle identification while at the same time providing a simplifiedmethod of issuing citations to the proper entity responsible for thecode violation.

The present invention is provided to solve the problems discussed aboveand other problems, and to provide advantages and aspects not providedby prior waste and refuse collection systems and apparatuses of thistype. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the presentinvention is deferred to the following detailed description, whichproceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention is directed to a method forcontrolling a municipal permit system. The method comprises the stepsof: (1) providing an RFID tag having a unique identifier; (2) issuing apermit for a subject of the permit; (3) and associating the uniqueidentifier with the permit.

This aspect of the present invention may further comprise one or more ofthe following steps: (1) establishing a database having informationassociated with a permit holder and the unique identifier; (2) providinginstructions for affixing the RFID tag onto the subject of the permit;(3) providing a portable reader for receiving a signal carrying theunique identifier from the RFID tag; (4) using the portable reader toreceive the signal carrying the unique identifier from the RFID tag; (5)storing the unique identifier in a memory module; (6) issuing a citationfor a violation of a municipal ordinance associated with a subject ofthe permit; and (7) providing a printer with the portable reader forprinting the citation.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a permittingmethod for use by a municipality. This method comprises the step ofissuing a permit to a permit holder. The permit comprises a uniqueidentifier stored on a means for transmitting the unique identifier viaa wireless signal.

This aspect of the invention may further one or more of the followingsteps: (1) providing instructions for affixing the means fortransmitting on a subject of the permit; (2) providing a database onwhich identifying information for the permit holder is associated withthe unique identifier; (3) providing a portable reader for receiving thewireless signal carrying the unique identifier from the means fortransmitting; (4) transmitting a signal carrying the unique identifierfrom the portable reader to a central station at a separate locationfrom the portable reader; (5) providing a computer at the centralstation; (6) inputting the unique identifier transmitted from theportable reader into the computer; (7) using a software on the computerto associate the unique identifier transmitted from the portable readerwith the identifying information of the permit holder; and (8)transmitting at least some of the identifying information of the permitholder associated with the unique identifier transmitted from theportable reader from the central station to the portable reader.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a method for amunicipality to control, track, and monitor waste or refuse receptacles.This method comprises the steps of: (1) requiring a permit for use of awaste receptacle; (2) issuing the permit associated with a discreetreceptacle identifier; (3) providing a transmitter means attached to adiscreet receptacle; and (4) transmitting a signal carrying dataassociated with the discreet receptacle identifier from the transmittermeans. This aspect of the invention may further include the steps of:(1) providing a handheld receiver for receiving the signal from thetransmitter means; (2) identifying a municipal code violation associatedwith a use of the waste receptacle; and/or (3) using the handheldreceiver to automatically generate citations based on the municipal codeviolation.

Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing specification taken in conjunction with the followingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To understand the present invention, it will now be described by way ofexample, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a waste removal and hauling vehicle ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 with a wastereceptacle in an unloading position;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second waste removal and haulingvehicle of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 3 with a wastereceptacle in a second position;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a third waste removal and haulingvehicle of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 5 with a wastereceptacle in a second position;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a fourth waste removal and haulingvehicle of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 7 with a wastereceptacle in a second position;

FIG. 9 is a front and rear perspective views of a receptacle showingplacement of a communication means;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a method of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process of an on-board computer;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a process for controlling automatic receptacleemptying carried out by an on-board computer;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a process of a first receiver located at afirst position on a waste removal and hauling vehicle;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a process of a second receiver located at asecond position on a waste removal and hauling vehicle;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a communication process carried out by anon-board computer; and

FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating an apparatus and a method of thepresent invention;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method by which a municipality mayuse principles and concepts of the present invention to control, track,and monitor waste or refuse receptacles

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of an aspect of the invention for use inconjunction with the method FIG. 17; and

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of an aspect of the invention for use withthe method of FIG. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many differentforms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understandingthat the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification ofthe principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broadaspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.

Referring to FIGS. 1-16, the present invention is directed to wasteremoval and hauling vehicles and systems or methods incorporating suchvehicles with sensors and an operational network to facilitate proper,efficient and effective waste monitoring and collection. The inventorscontemplate that the present invention will provide a means formunicipalities to more effectively police violation of municipal codesin connection with commercial and residential waste collection andremoval. The inventors further contemplate that the present inventionwill provide more effective communication between waste hauling vehiclesand a dispatcher located at an external site. As best illustrated by theblock diagram in FIG. 16, the overall system of the invention 10comprises a receptacle 100, preferably a plurality of receptacleslocated at a plurality of locations throughout a municipality, a refuseor waste hauling vehicle 200, an external site 300, typically a centralstation, management office, dispatcher or the like, and a handheldreader/printer transmitter means 400 used in an example of a municipalfunctionality.

Each receptacle 100 is outfitted with a means of communicating ortransmitting a signal carrying an identifier associated with thereceptacle 102, such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag.RFID tags are well-known in the retail industry for identifyingproducts. In particular, an RFID tag or transponder is an object appliedto or incorporated into a product for the purpose of identificationusing radio waves. Most RFID tags contain at least two parts, namely anintegrated circuit for storing and processing information, modulatingand demodulating a (RF) signal and an antenna for receiving andtransmitting the signal. RFID tags come in three general varieties:passive, active, or semi-passive (also known as battery-assisted).Passive tags require no internal power source, thus being pure passivedevices (they are only activated when a reader is nearby to power them),whereas semi-passive and active tags require a power source, usually asmall battery. While the present discussion focuses on passive RFIDtags, it is recognized that a similar system can be used for active andsemi-active RFID tags.

The RFID tags may transmit high frequency (HF) signals, low frequencysignals (LF), or ultra high frequency (UHF) signals. The characteristicsof these signals differ, and one particular frequency may be moreadvantageous than another based on the particular application of thesystem. For instance, low frequency signals have a short read range(distance) which would prevent errors or false reads. UHF signals canhave a read range that is very short to very wide (any yards or meter).

While RFID, and in particular passive RFID tags are discussed herein, itis recognized that other identifying or alerting tags can be used. Manyare known and perhaps others in the future. For example, electricalarticle surveillance (EAS) tags can be used. EAS tags are commonly usedto prevent shoplifting from retail stores. The EAS tags are attached tomerchandise and are removed or deactivated by the clerks when the itemis properly bought or checked out. At the exits of stores, a detectionsystem sounds an alarm or otherwise alerts the staff when it sensesactive tags. These tags are typically made of a strip of amorphous metal(metglas) having a low magnetic saturation value. This strip is alsolined with a strip of ferromagnetic material with a coercive field(magnetic “hardness”). Detection is achieved by sensing harmonics andsum or difference signals generated by the non-linear magnetic responseof the material under a mixture of low-frequency (in the 10 Hz to 1000Hz range) magnetic fields.

When the ferromagnetic material is magnetized, it biases the amorphousmetal strip into saturation, where it no longer produces harmonics. Thetags are activated by demagnetization and deactivated withmagnetization.

The identifier associated with the receptacle is preferably a discreetidentifier which is assigned to the receptacle 100. The identifierinformation is stored on a database typically located at the externalsite 300, and electronically joined with an account to which thereceptacle 100 belongs. In other words, account information is housed ona database located at the external site 300. Each account has one ormore receptacle identifiers associated with it, and the database carrieswith it information typical to the management of any business account,for example, special instructions, accounts receivable, last receipt,last invoice, amount in arrears, days since last payment, historicalaccount information, contact information, owner, etc.

Referring to FIG. 1-8, various vehicles 200 a-d used in conjunction withthe system 10 of the invention are illustrated. These vehicles 200 a-dare intended to be examples of the types of waste removing and haulingvehicles used to transport refuse today, and the broad aspects of theinvention should not be limited to the specific examples unlessotherwise claimed. It should also be understood that the vehicles 200a-d and related concepts of the external site 300 and the receptacle 100can be used alone or, more importantly, in combination with themunicipal permitting concepts described above

Each of the vehicles 200 a-d includes a waste bin 202 located above abaseline upon which the vehicle 200 a-d is supported, generally theground. The waste bin 202 includes a chamber 204 and an emptying site206. The refuse within the receptacles 100 is loaded into the chamber204 via the emptying site 206. One of ordinary skill in the art of wastehauling would readily understand this method of refuse handling withoutfurther description as it is the standard procedure employed in the art.

The vehicles 200 a-d are further outfitted with at least one receiver208 a, in most cases a plurality of receivers 208 a,b and preferablytwo. The receivers 208 a,b may be sensors, transducers, or antennae, orany combination thereof. As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, preferably,the receivers 208 receive the signal from the transmitting means 102 onthe receptacles 100 and send a corresponding signal via wire, wireless,or any other medium to an on-board communication or data link 210. Thesignal from the receiver 208 a,b may be response signal to the energy inthe form of the signal transmitted by the transmitter means 102, or thesignal may simply be a pass through signal, including conversion from awireless signal to a signal carried by another medium such as a wire. Ineither case, all or a part of the signal from the receivers 208 to thedata link are associated with the actual identity or the discreetidentifier associated with the each receptacle 100. In the case where aseparate response signal to the transmitter means 102 is generated, theresponse signal may carry additional information such as location of theparticular receiver 208 a,b generating the signal, etc.

The locations chosen for the receivers 208 a,b are extremely importantbecause the receivers 208 a,b are used for several different purposes,including for possible tracking of the receptacle 100 as it istransferred from position-to-position relative to the vehicle 200 a-d bya means for transferring the receptacle 212, which may be automatedsystems known in the art, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, comprising mechanicalarms, booms, or the like extending outwardly from the vehicle 200 towhich a waste receptacle 100, or a waste bin 202 in the case of aroll-off vehicle 200 d or manual systems also known in the art. Forinstance, in a conventional refuse collection and hauling vehicles 200a-d illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, a first receiver 208 a is located at aposition where reception of the signal from the transmitter means 102can be promoted prior to unloading or emptying of the receptacle. Asshown in the FIGS. 1-8, the first location or position is typicallywhere the receptacle 100 is engaged by the means for transferring thereceptacle 212 prior to the receptacle 100 being transported to theemptying site 206 by the means for transferring 212.

The preferred location of the first receiver 208 a on a front loadingvehicle 200 a, illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, is on the front of thevehicle 200 a below the windshield and centered between opposing ends orsides. The first receiver 208 may be recessed or spaced from the bumpersuch that accidental collision with an obstacle would not damage thereceiver. Accordingly, the first receiver 208 a may be located within orprotected by the shell of the vehicle 200 a as long as the receiver 208a is capable of achieving its purpose. One example of such a locationmay be behind the vehicle radiator grill. In any event, the firstreceiver 208 a is associated with the means for transferring thereceptacle 212 when the receptacle is in a first position. Asillustrated, the means for transferring 212 comprises a pair of armswith grasping hooks for engaging corresponding handles on the receptacle100.

FIGS. 3-6 show vehicles emptying a certain type of receptacle 100. Thistype of receptacle 100 is illustrated in FIG. 9 to show a placementposition for the communication means 102 which may not be evident fromFIGS. 3-6.

The preferred location for the first receiver 208 a on a side loadingvehicle 200 b, illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, is on a side of the vehiclecorresponding to a side of the vehicle where the receptacle 100 would belocated prior to or just as the means for transferring the receptacle212 engages the receptacle 100. This location is typically on thepassenger side adjacent the transfer means 212. This includes eitherjust behind the cab or on the cab to the rear of the passenger sidedoor. The first receiver 208 a may be protected by locating on thepassenger side and behind the cab, such that the receiver is protectedby the cab and the waste bin 202.

The preferred location of the first receiver 208 a on a rear loadingvehicle 200 c, illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, is at the rear of thevehicle 200 c above the baseline, between the tail lights, but below theemptying site 206. Thus, as receptacles 100 are transported to thevehicle 200 c for emptying at the emptying site 206, the communicationmeans 102 may be positioned such that the first receiver 208 a mayreceive the signal from the communication means 102 without difficulty.These types of vehicles 200 c may or may not be outfitted with anautomated means for transferring receptacle 212. The example shown inthe drawings exhibits such an automated system.

The preferred location of the first receiver 208 a on a roll-off vehicle200 d, illustrate in FIGS. 7 and 8, is similar to the location on rearloading vehicles 200 c, namely at the rear of the vehicle 200 d, abovethe baseline and between the tail lights of the vehicle 200 d where themeans for transferring 212 first engages the waste bin 202. Although oneof ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize this point, itshould be noted that a roll-off vehicle 200 d differs from the othervehicles 200 a-c in that the waste bin 202 also acts as the receptacle.Thus, the transfer means 212 does not transfer and dump a receptacle.Rather, it engages a waste bin 202 and loads it onto the vehicle 200 dbed. It follows that the transmitter means 102 would be located on thewaste bin 202, preferably on the forward or front facing wall as shownin the drawings.

The vehicles 200 a-d also include a second receiver 208 b located at aposition where reception of the signal from the transmitter means 102can be promoted either at the instant of receptacle unloading or justprior or just subsequent to receptacle unloading. Accordingly, thissecond location is typically adjacent the emptying site 206 to thechamber 204 and in alignment with the first receiver. The phrases “inalignment with the first receiver 208 a,” “aligned with the firstreceiver 208 a,” and the like are intended to include a position whereina path of the receptacle and the means for transmitting 102 taken fromthe first position at the first receiver 208 a to a second position atthe second receiver 208 b, as determined by the means for transferringthe receptacle 212 included on the vehicles 200 a-c, naturally bringsthe means for transmitting 102 to a location where the second receiver208 b can receive the signal from the means for transmitting 102, i.e.into a range of the second receiver 208 b where reception is achieved.

The preferred location of the second receiver 208 b on a front loadingvehicle 200 a, illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, is on the front of thevehicle 200 a above the windshield and preferably above the cab,approximately aligned with the first receiver 208 a. The second receiver208 b may be attached to the roof of the cab or closer to the emptyingsite 206, which is an opening on the vertically upper surface of the bin202, on a portion of the bin 202 just behind the cab and aligned withthe first receiver 208 a. The second receiver 208 b may be locatedwithin or protected by the shell of the vehicle 200 a or the bin 202 aslong as the receiver 208 b is capable of achieving its purpose.

The preferred location for the second receiver 208 b on a side loadingvehicle 200 b, illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, is on a side of the vehiclecorresponding to a side of the vehicle where the receptacle 100 would belocated and elevated above the position of the first receiver 208 a.This location is typically on the passenger side either just behind thecab or on the cab to the rear of the passenger side door, either on theroof of the cab, on the rear of the cab adjacent the roof, or on someother portion of the vehicle 200 b, such as an upper, stationary portionof the transfer means 212 as illustrated. In any case, the secondreceiver 208 b is aligned with the first receiver 208 a as determined bythe path of the receptacle 100 provides by the means for transferringthe receptacle 212.

The preferred location of the second receiver 208 b on a rear loadingvehicle 200 c, illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, is at the rear of thevehicle 200 c above the baseline, between the tail lights, and above thefirst receiver site 208 a and aligned therewith.

The preferred location of the second receiver 208 b on a roll-offvehicle 200 d, illustrate in FIGS. 7 and 8, is generally some portion ofthe vehicle 200 d adjacent to where the front face of the bin 202 havingthe transmitter means 102 is located once the bin 202 is loaded onto thevehicle 200 d. This may be on the back of the cab adjacent to where themeans for transmitting 102 on the waste bin 202 is positioned once thetransfer means 212 positions the waste bin 202 on the vehicle 200 d, orit may be on a forward portion of transfer means 212 as illustrated.Again, the second receiver 208 b is preferably aligned with the firstreceiver 208 a.

As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 16, the vehicle 200 has acontroller 214, for activating and deactivating the means fortransferring the receptacle 212, in communication with an on-boardcomputer 216. The on-board computer 216 has a graphic interface 218 andprovides the data or communication link to the external site 300 viamodem or some other communication device. The controller 214 may also bea module within the on-board computer without departing from the spiritof the invention. Communication to and from the external site 300 isshown as wireless communication. The first and second receivers 208 a,bare illustrated as spaced wherein as the transmitting means 102traverses toward the first receiver 208 a, the first receiver 208 areceives the signal from the transmitter means 102. Likewise, as thereceptacle 100 is transferred to the second position where the secondreceiver 208 b is located, the second receiver 208 b receives the signalfrom the transmitter means 102. Movement of the receptacle 100 and theassociated signal are shown in dashed lines.

The external site 300 may include a server 302 in communication withcomputer 304 and a database 306, typically on the computer 304. Ofcourse, the server 300 is not required to be at the same physical siteas the computer 304, nor is it required for the database 306 to bestored on a computer separate from the server 302. The block diagram ismerely an example of a possible layout. The only requirement for theexternal site 300 is the database 306 and a means for communicationbetween the vehicles and database 306.

Now, as illustrated in flowcharts of FIG. 10-15, the various componentsof the system, the receptacle 100, the vehicle 200, and the externalsite 300, work together to provide an overall apparatus, the elements ofwhich were described above, and a method for removing and hauling waste.

Referring to FIG. 10, first, a receptacle 100 is located at a baselineposition adjacent the vehicle 200 such that means for transmitting 102is brought within the reception range with the first receiver 208 a. Thetransmitter means 208 a sends a signal carrying discreet receptacleidentifier information to the receiver 208 a. The receiver 208 a eitherpasses the signal directly to the on-board communication link,preferably a module of the on-board computer 216, or generates a newsignal based on the signal received from the means for transmitting, butstill including some type of receptacle identifier.

Next, the communication link sends a signal, either pass though or new,to the external site which receives the signal. The identity of thereceptacle 100 is checked against an account database 306 to verify thatthe receptacle 100 should be emptied into the vehicle 200. A signal isgenerated indicating the account status associated with the receptacleidentifier.

If the account is in good standing (pass condition), the controller 214for the means for transferring the receptacle 212 is automaticallyactivated either by a module or routine on the on-board computer or onthe external computer 304. The means for transferring the receptacle 212transports the receptacle 100 to the emptying site 20 where thetransmitter means 102 is within reception range of the second receiver208 b. The transmitter means 102 sends a signal carrying discreetreceptacle identifier information to the receiver 208 b. The receiver208 b either passes the signal directly to the on-board communicationlink, preferably a module of the on-board computer 216, or generates anew signal based on the signal received from the means for transmitting,but still including some type of receptacle identifier. The triggered orpass through signal from the second receiver 208 b represents an event.The event is preferably the emptying of the receptacle 100 into thevehicle bin 202. This event is recorded on the database 306 at theexternal site 300 and associated with the receptacle account.

If the account is not in good standing (fail condition), the controller214 is not activated, a signal carrying an alarm or warning istransmitted to the vehicle 200. The account status can also be displayedon the on-board graphic interface 218. As a result, the transfer means212 is not activated, and the receptacle 100 is not emptied into thevehicle bin 202. However, if for some reason, such as immediate,on-the-spot payment of an invoice by a customer, the vehicle personnelare inclined to empty the receptacle 100, vehicle personnel may overridethe alert and manually engage/energize the transfer means 212. In thiscase, as illustrated on the right hand side of FIG. 10, transmittermeans 102 sends a signal carrying discreet receptacle identifierinformation to the second receiver 208 b. The second receiver 208 beither passes the signal directly to the on-board communication link,preferably a module of the on-board computer 216, or generates a newsignal based on the signal received from the means for transmitting, butstill including some type of receptacle identifier. The triggered orpass through signal from the second receiver 208 b represents an event.The event is preferably the emptying of the receptacle 100 into thevehicle bin 202. This event is recorded on the database 306 at theexternal site 300 and associated with the receptacle account. The firstreceiver 208 a may send an additional signal at a second moment in timewhen the receptacle 100 at is returned to the first position.

Referring specifically to FIG. 11, a flowchart of a process of theon-board computer 216 is illustrated. Here, the communication or datalink between the receivers 208 a,b and the external site 300 is a moduleor routine provided by the computer 216. This process comprisesreceiving a signal carrying the receptacle identifier from the firstreceiver 208 a. The computer 216 then transmits a signal from thevehicle 200 to the external site 300. Once the data has been analyzed atthe external site 300, the computer 216 receives a return signal fromthe external site 300 and determines whether to activate the transfermeans 212 or require an override to empty the receptacle 100. If thetransfer means 212 is activated, either automatically or manually viaoverride, the second receiver 208 b will send a signal to the computer216. The computer 216 transmits a second signal to the external site 300indicating that the emptying event has taken place.

Referring specifically to FIG. 12, a process for controlling thetransfer means 212 is illustrated. This process may be performed by theon-board computer 216 or by an existing controller 214 in communicationwith the on-board computer 216. The computer 216 receives a signalrelated to or determined by an account status associated with thereceptacle. If the account status is such that the receptacle should beemptied, i.e. current, a signal is generated to automatically energizethe transfer means 212. If the account status is not current, theprocess ends.

Referring to FIG. 15, a process of the computer 304 of the external site300 is illustrated. The main purpose of the server 302 and/or thecomputer 304 of the external site 300 is to hold or have the capabilityof accessing a database 306, the database 306 including an associationbetween receptacle identity, ownership or responsibility, and accountstatus. In terms of the overall system or method of the invention, theexternal site 300 communicates with the vehicle 200 by receiving andsending signals.

For example, the external site 300 receives a first signal carrying areceptacle identifier from the vehicle 200. This first signal isassociated with the receptacle 100 being located at the first position.The first signal originates with, though is not necessarily identicalto, the signal received from the transmitter means 102 at the firstreceiver 208 a. A module at the external site 300, preferably on thecomputer 304, compares the data carried by the signal against accountinformation on the database 306 to determine an account statusassociated with the receptacle identifier. The result of the comparison,i.e. the account status, is transmitted from the external site 300 backto the vehicle.

Further, the external site 300 receives a second signal from the vehicle200. This second signal is associated with the receptacle 100 beinglocated at the second position. The second signal originates with,though is not necessarily identical to, the signal received from thetransmitter means 102 at second receiver 208 b. A module at the externalsite 300, preferably on the computer 304, compares the data carried bythe signal against account information on the database 306 and recordsan event, the emptying of the receptacle 100, in connection with thereceptacle 100.

Referring generally to FIGS. 17-19, the inventors also foresee the meansfor communicating or transmitting 102 as being supplied bymunicipalities on a permit basis to citizens. This would provide severaladvantages. First, the permit process would provide an unexpected sourceof income to the municipality because the typical permit grantingprocess comes with an associated government fee. Secondly, it wouldprovide a means by which the municipality can easily track ownership ofor responsibility for the receptacle. Thirdly, because ownership of thereceptacle would be stored on the database created during the permitprocess, citations for misuse, neglect, damage, etc. can be easily,swiftly, and electronically generated using a handheld receiver withprinter for generating citations, providing yet a further stream ofincome to municipalities as well as improving lane conditions, thusreducing the likelihood of infestation by vermin. In addition,sanitation inspectors would be more productive due to the automationprovided by the handhelds readers in combination with the communicationmeans, preferably RFID tags 102.

As set forth above, this aspect of the invention directly results incleaner streets and alleys. The invention will eliminate or reduce trashoverages, under size containers, poor container maintenance condition,e.g. no lid. Permits and citations will force compliance. Users canspecify correct container size, schedule additional pick-ups. Servicemay be halted due to lack of payment or by schedule.

Information regarding each permit/receptacle identifier, the accountassociated therewith, and the entity responsible for theaccount/permit/receptacle is stored on a managed database. The databasemay include other information such as hauler name, permit number andcontainer asset number (human readable sticker and RFID tag). Use andaccess of the database is explained in more detail below.

The RFID tags 102 can be read by inspectors having mobile and/orhandheld computers 400. Citations may be issued immediately via printeron the handheld 400 and/or mailed with back-up violation data.Inspectors and other municipal employees use mobile handheld RFIDreaders with cameras to read tags and report violations. Citations canbe issued and wireless transmission of data achieved through thehandhelds 400.

This aspect of the invention requires haulers or receptacle owners topurchase annual container permits. The issued permit includes a meansfor transmitting 102, such as an RFID container tag. Revenue to themunicipality is generated by an enforcement program.

Further, a container registration fee includes RFID tagging. The RFIDtag information is linked to customer and hauler information in thedatabase.

More specifically, a tag 102 (such as a passive RFID tag) acts as apermit. While the description below discusses passive RFID tags aspermits, it is recognized that other information storing devices canalso be used, such as active RFID tags, hybrid RFID tags, smartcards,and other hereto unknown items.

Typically, one goes to the governing body or agency and fills out thenecessary registration forms, pays the necessary fees, and receives theRFID tag 102 acting as a permit. This initial registration and paymentcan also be done on-line through the internet or over the telephone. Thetag includes certain necessary information dependent on its purpose.Encoding, entering, and keeping such information on the tag iswell-known to those skilled in the art. Such information can include:the permit's issuing body (e.g., Secretary of State, Village ofAnywhere, City of Nowhere), the date of issuance of the permit, the termof the permit (e.g., Jun. 1, 2010-May 31, 2011), the type of permit(e.g., “Permit for Trash,” “Vehicle Permit,” Elevator Permit), thelocation for the permit's use (e.g., “123 Main St. Anytown, USA,” “1999Ford Austere,” “Elevator No. 6 SE for The Towers”), the responsibleparty's name and contact information (e.g., “Joe Smith at 111 S. Main,Anytown,” “Office of Management, The Towers, 432 E. Main, Anytown,”“Joe's Construction Co., 999 W. Main, Anytown”), and any otherinformation necessary under the circumstances for the inspector to makea determination as to whether the permit is in compliance or out ofcompliance resulting in a violation. In the preferred application, thetag 102 includes all the information necessary for a government orindependent inspector to make a determination in the field at a remotelocation as to whether a violation is present and has occurred relatingto the item being inspected.

For visual inspection and to ensure proper location (e.g., the tag is inthe correct vehicle or at the correct address), the RFID tag 102typically has identifying indicia thereon such as time period involved,address, municipality's identity, and possibly the owner's identity.This ensures the tag 102 is placed at the proper location and gives theinspector visual verification of the tag's location.

The tag 102 is given or sent to the person responsible for the permitalong with specific instructions as to placement, use, and purpose.

The 102 tag can also include a mounting component 104, such as aprotective pocket or pouch having an adhesive on one side so the pouchcan hold the tag and protect it and be adhered to the location where thepermit is to be displayed, e.g., the outside wall of a recyclingcontainer, the inside of a trash can lid (outside the trash can itself)or on the outside can wall, the inside of a windshield, the inside of abusiness window, etc.

EXAMPLES

Permit Identification Purpose Permit Information Carrier LocationTrash/Refuse The Collection, Address Protective Pocket Placed on insideRemoval Storage of Type of with adhesive on of lid for TrashTrash/Refuse Container one side Container or for Removal Permit Numberoutside Large and Size of & Date Compactor/Bailer Container, Term/PeriodCompactor or Valid Bailer Recyclables Collection of Address ProtectivePocket Placed on inside Removal The Collection, Type of with adhesive onof Lid for Storage and Container one side Recyclable Removal of PermitNumber Container or Recyclable & Date outside Large Materials andTerm/Period Compactor/Bailer Size of Valid Container, Compactor orBailer Grease The Collection Address Protective Pocket Placed on insideBoxes and Storage of Type of with adhesive on of Lid for DiscardedContainer one side Recyclable Grease for Permit Number Container orRemoval & Date outside of Box Term/Period Valid Business To ConductAddress Protective Pocket Placed on inside Business at a City Name withadhesive on of Window for Certain Premise Permit Number one sideBusiness & Date Term/Period Valid Vehicle To Park a Type of VehicleProtective Pocket Placed on inside Vehicle City Name with adhesive on ofWindow for Residing within Permit Number one side Vehicle Municipality's& Date Borders Term/Period Valid Fuel To Dispense Address None Placed onDispensing Accurate City Name Dispensing (Inspected) Permit NumberMechanism Amounts of & Date Fuel within Term/Period Municipality's ValidBorders Issuing Body and Contact Info. Elevator To Safely Address FramePlaced in Frame Operate City Name on Elevator Wall (Inspected) PermitNumber Elevator within & Date Municipality's Term/Period Borders ValidIssuing Body and Contact Info. Construction To Perform AddressProtective Pocket Placed at Construction City Name with adhesive onConstruction Site (New, Addition, Owner one side (In Window or onImprovement) Contractor Sign Advising of within Permit NumberConstruction) Municipality's & Date Borders Term/Period Valid IssuingBody and Contact Info. Billboard To Display Location Protective PocketPlace at Bottom or Public City Name with adhesive on on Back ofAdvertisement Owner one side Billboard Stand Permit Number & DateTerm/Period Valid Issuing Body and Contact Info. Portable To SafelyLocation Protective Pocket Placed inside Unit Toilets Operate a CityName with adhesive on Healthy Facility Service one side withinProvider-Owner Municipality's User/Customer Borders Permit Number & DateTerm/Period Valid Issuing Body and Contact Info. Newspaper To ConductAddress Protective Pocket Placed on Stands Business at a City Name withadhesive on Conspicuous Certain Permit Number one side Location on StandLocation & Date Term/Period Valid

The handheld device 400 is preferably a small computer carried by anauthorized remote user. It is the method used to gather information inthe field by the inspector, such as a policeman, village employee, etc.The device 400 includes several components, that being a power source401, such as a battery, a means to enter data (a reader and keyboard)402, an internal clock 404, a memory 406, a GPS locator 408, a camera410, a monitor or screen 412, and a printer 414 or preferably a wirelessconnection 416 to a printer 414 having a wireless communication means418.

One or more methods can be employed to enter the necessary data into theremote handheld device 400. The preferred means is an RFID reader 420.The reader 420 is capable of reading passive RFID tags 102 in the field.A keyboard 412 may also be provided for entering additional data as maybe necessary.

In particular, three items are inputted into the remote handheld device400, that being an authorization code, the permit information, and thetime and date. The user's authorization code and the date and time canbe entered on a keyboard provided on the handheld device 400. However,the preferred method of entering such data is by a reader 420 associatedwith the handheld device 400. The reader 420 can read the tags 102, suchas passive RFID tags. The user/inspector can thus have an identificationRFID card with the necessary authorization codes thereon to activate thedevice 400 and to operate and use the device 400 once the reader 420reads the authorization information. Similarly, the reader 420 can readthe information provided on the permit, such as a license plate number,a home address, a business address, etc. The date and time can beentered automatically by an internal clock 404 in the device 400.

A internal clock 404 is provided to document the time certain eventsoccur, such as the reading, gathering and/or entering of informationassociated with reading the permit, the date/time of a photograph, andthe date/time a citation is entered or printed, etc. The clock 404 is aninternal mechanism stamping the memory of the event (permit reading,photograph, GPS locating, citation issuance) with the date and time ofthe event.

The device 400 includes a screen or monitor 412 for displayinginformation read and received. The device 40 also includes a wirelessconnection or link (Bluetooth) 416 to a mobile printer 414. The device400 can then display or print information obtained by the reader 420 inthe device 400 relating to the tag 102 or generated by the device 400and relating to a citation. In the alternative, the printer 414 need notbe mobile, but can be used at a central location 500 so that when thedevice 400 is downloaded at a central location 500 (such as the policestation or city hall) through conventional means, information read by itor citations generated by it can be printed out.

An optional camera 410 and/or GPS locator 408 may also be provided inthe handheld device 400 to document both what is seen visually by theremote user and to identify the location of the remote user.

Once the data has been entered or citation processed, the entry orissuance can be confirmed by digital or physical signature. The device400 can have a touch screen for recording a signature by the inspector.In the alternative, the inspector's authorization card can be read oncemore or drawn from the device's memory 406 to confirm the inspector'sidentity and authorization relating to the entry of information orissuance of a citation.

As noted, biographical and permit information is obtained from anapplicant for the permit and stored in the tag 102. For trash, refuseand recyclables this information will also include time period of permit(e.g., 6 months, 1 year, etc.), number of containers, location ofcontainers (address), type of containers (e.g., size), and haulerinformation (identity, contact information, pick-up schedule, etc.). Apermit, in this case—an RFID tag 102—is issued by the authorized body.The RFID tag 102 will typically have identifying indicia thereon such asaddress of containers, and possibly types and/or size of containers. TheRFID tag 102 has an adhesive thereon or is placed into a protectivepouch (having a transparent cover, with an adhesive on an outwardlyfacing surface). The RFID tag 102 is then adhered to the outer containerwall in a designated location.

A remote, authorized user, typically a government or third partyinspector enters an authorization code by typing it in or reading it (orit is automatically drawn from memory 406 and the initialsign-on/authorization), on her handheld device 400. When at the remotelocation, the inspector then reads the RFID tag 102 (the permitinformation contained thereon) with the handheld device 400. The display412 (or pint-out) will then display the necessary information for theinspector to make a determination as to whether the permit is incompliance or whether there is a violation. Such violations can include,among others, the permit is outdated and expired, the containers 100 ofthe permit are not the same as those being used, the containers 100 areconstantly and consistently overflowed meaning they are undersized, thecontainers 100 are damaged and have not been properly maintained, thecontainers 100 are missing lids/covers, the containers 100 are in animproper location, the containers 100 do not have a permit, and/or thehauler has not made the necessary and scheduled pick-ups of recyclablesand/or refuse. Of course, one of the primary purposes of issuingcitations is to force compliance with rules, regulations and ordinancesto maintain properly sized, safe equipment.

If desired, to document or corroborate the violation, the inspector cantake a photograph of the scene with a camera 410 built-into orassociated with the handheld device 400 and obtain the GPS location ofthe scene with a GPS locate 408 built-into or associated with thehandheld device 400. This documentation stored in memory 406 canaccompany the citation or merely be kept in memory 406 (on the handhelddevice or at a central database 502 at the central station 500) asback-up. It is preferred to have such documentation accompany and bepart of the citation.

Once a violation has been determined, the inspector can issue or processa citation. This can be accomplished many ways. One way is to use theinformation read from the tag 102 and in the memory 406 of the handhelddevice 400 and entering the necessary information associated with theviolation. The citation can then be stored in the memory 406 of thedevice 400 and formally issued later via mail or similar once theinspector's tour is completed. In the alternative, the device 400 caninclude a wireless link 416 to a mobile printer 414 for printing thecitation and giving it or leaving it with the responsible party(business owner, individual, etc.). The violation and citation recordscan further be stored in the device's memory 406 for downloading laterfor documenting the citation, record keeping, tracking and follow-up. Ifthe device 400 was used to take a picture and/or obtain locationinformation, that information can also be attached or used with theissued citation as confirmatory information and supportingdocumentation.

It should be recognized that while the handheld device 400 is discussedas being carried by an inspector, it can also be mounted on a vehicle.As a result, the tag-permit can also be read by an RFID or similarreader mounted to a mobile vehicle. In some instances, this may prove tobe more efficient.

The above describes a system wherein the tag-permit 102 and handhelddevice 400 are the primary components and virtually the sole componentsof the system. In an alternative device, the device 400 includes acommunications module 416 to communicate with a central station 500having a central database 502 and the tag-permit 102 has encodedinformation thereon for directing the central station 500 to make adetermination of whether there is a violation and a citation should beissued.

Briefly, while the tag 102 acts as the permit, it merely includesidentifying information encoded therein. As before, it may also haveidentifying indicia thereon such as time period involved, address andmunicipality's identity and possibly the owner's identity. Again, amounting component 104, such as a pouch, can be used also.

The registration information, instead of being stored on the permit, isstored in a memory 504 associated with the central station 500. Thecentral database 502 is housed and maintained at the central location500 such as a police station, village hall, county office or stateagency, or third party service provider. Some, if not all of theinformation is obtainable by and from an authorized remote user. Thecentral database 502 is maintained on a system, such as on a computer506, that can receive queries and transmit select informationautomatically or by pointed requests. As a result and by way of example,a policeman may access the database 502 and request certain vehicle andowner information by entering a license plate number or by specificinquiry prompted by reading the RFID-permit.

A communication module 508 is associated with the central station 500allowing data or information to be received from one or more remotehandheld devices 400 and information to be transmitted to one or moreremote handheld devices 400.

Housed with the central station 500 is look-up and/or comparisonsoftware 510 capable of receiving information from the handheld device400, polling/querying the memory 504 associated with the central station500, and if necessary, making a comparison and generating a report orresult of the comparison made. The information polled/looked up orgenerated by a comparison is then sent to the remote handheld device400.

Specifically, the information obtained from the handheld device 400,such as a license plate entered into the remote handheld device 400 orby reading the tag 102 with an RFID reader 420, and received by thecentral station 500 will be looked-up or compared with the informationaccessed from the central database 502. The individual operating theremote device 400 can then determine whether a violation has occurred(such as when the looked-up data shows the permit has expired). Or, thedatabase 502 comparison will then determine if the information obtainedis the same as the information stored and/or determine whether aviolation has occurred, such as the permit period paid for has lapsed.

The handheld device 400 is described above and is similar, except itfurther includes a communications module 416 for transmitting andreceiving communications from the central station 500.

As noted, biographical and permit information is obtained from anapplicant and stored in memory in a central database 502. A remote,authorized user, typically a policeman, government employee, or thirdparty or government inspector, once authorized, reads the RFID-permit bythe handheld device 400. This information is transmitted to the centraldatabase 502 where, in turn, the database queries its memory forinformation necessary to determine if a violation occurred, such as thepermits expiration or improper container size. A citation can then beissued and printed on the handheld device 400 or on a printer 512 at thecentral station 500.

By way of example, with respect to vehicle stickers, a traffic controlmanager can read an RFID attached to a windshield and transmit theinformation to a central database 502. The central database 502 thenpolls its memory 506 for information associated with that permit. Thedatabase or the manager in the field can then determine if the permit isexpired or if the permit is associated with the correct vehicle. If aviolation has occurred, the manager can issue a citation by printing acitation and attaching it to the car or transmitting the necessaryinformation to the central database for printing and issuing (by mail)the citation.

While the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described,numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing fromthe spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is only limitedby the scope of the accompanying claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for a municipality to track the condition, pick-up, and general use of a large number of refuse containers among its citizens and businesses, the method comprising the steps of: permitting use of a multi-use waste receptacle among a plurality of residents of a municipality wherein the multi-use waste receptacle is of a type filled and emptied on multiple occasions; establishing a plurality of multi-use receptacle use types; associating a passive radio frequency identification tag having a unique identifier associated therewith with each multi-use waste receptacle; associating a use type with each passive radio frequency identification tag; establishing an electronically accessible database external to the passive radio frequency identification tag comprising an association of the plurality of unique identifiers with biographical information associated with a corresponding member of the plurality of residents; requiring attachment of the passive radio frequency identification tag to a receptacle associated with a resident wherein the passive radio frequency identification tag remains attached to the receptacle subsequent to several loadings and empties of refuse within the receptacle; making a determination whether use of a multi-use receptacle is in compliance or non-compliance based on the use type associated with the passive radio frequency identification tag attached thereto; and operating a handheld device for communicating information regarding the determination, the handheld device comprising a reader for reading the unique identifier from the passive radio frequency identification tag, a means for wireless communication with the database wherein the handheld device receives information from and transmits information to the electronically accessible database, and a display for displaying information to a user.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of: providing a computer at central station; and inputting the unique identifier transmitted from the handheld device into the computer.
 3. The method of claim 2 further comprising the step of: using a software on the computer to associate the unique identifier transmitted from the handheld device with the biographical information of the corresponding member of the plurality of residents.
 4. The method of claim 3 further comprising the step of: transmitting at least some of the biographical information of the corresponding member of the plurality of residents associated with the unique identifier from the central station to the handheld device.
 5. The method of claim 4 further comprising the step of: issuing a citation with the handheld device for a violation of an ordinance using the biographical information of the corresponding member of the plurality of residents received from the central station and associated with the unique identifier.
 6. The method of claim 5 further comprising the step of: providing a printer on the handheld device for printing the citation.
 7. The method of claim 6 wherein the use type is chosen from the group consisting of trash, recyclables, and grease collection. 